What Does Quality Look Like?

Parents want what is best for their children and finding quality child care is an important part of that. Each family may have their own definition of what quality looks like. One of the most important factors is that child care be licensed in order to ensure minimum health and safety standards are consistently being met.

The Office of Early Childhood has developed a quality improvement system for child care providers. It is called Elevate.  Families can check a program’s Elevate Level to learn more about their commitment to quality and continuous improvement. All licensed and license-exempt providers are part of the Elevate system.

What does Elevate mean to families?

When you’re choosing a child care program for your family, there’s a lot to consider – hours, costs, location, relationships with teachers, and many other factors. Checking a program’s Elevate Level can help make your decision easier.

A provider’s Elevate Level reflects where they are in the process of strengthening their program. There are three Elevate Levels of engagement

Learn more about Elevate Levels

Call 211 Child Care or view the provider’s profile on 211 Child Care’s website for information on a program’s level in Elevate and to check if they are accredited.

Accreditation means a  program meets national standards for child care. These standards are based on research and best practices. For more information on accredited programs visit:  https://resources.211childcare.org/parents/accreditations/

Child Care Aware of America has helpful information for families on finding quality child care.